Want leaner legs without hours at the gym? Celebrity trainer James Duigan, founder of Bodyism and author of the bestselling Clean & Lean books, says it’s all about balance and mindful movement.
“In my eyes, the word lean doesn’t mean a body that’s gym-honed to within an inch of its life or one that’s scarily skinny,” explains James. “It means a body that’s just the right side of athletic — strong, graceful, and healthy.”
Written exclusively for Women Love Health, James shares three simple exercises you can do anywhere, anytime — no equipment required. These moves sculpt and tone your legs, improve posture, and boost your overall strength.
1. The Disco Lunge
A supermodel favourite — this move tones your legs, strengthens your core, and improves posture.
How to do it:
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Stand tall with perfect posture, thumbs up.
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As you lunge forward, sweep your arms up and back over your head.
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Engage your core and land on your heel as you step forward.
Why it works: The Disco Lunge activates deep postural muscles, stretches your spine, and burns fat — all while shaping your legs beautifully.
2. The Drop Lunge
This variation keeps your muscles guessing and your joints strong.
How to do it:
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Step one leg diagonally behind the other, lowering into a lunge.
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Keep your tummy tight, belly button drawn in, and hips facing forward.
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Alternate sides for 10–15 reps per leg.
Why it works: The Drop Lunge tones your glutes from different angles and builds stability — key for keeping your joints healthy and your body balanced.
3. The Single-Leg Romanian Deadlift
Don’t let the name intimidate you — this move is brilliant for sculpting your butt and improving balance.
How to do it:
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Stand on one leg with a soft bend in the knee.
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Hinge forward at the hips, extending your free leg behind you.
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Keep your core engaged and back flat as you return to standing.
Why it works: This move builds strength through your hamstrings and glutes, enhances stability, and helps burn fat efficiently.
The Clean & Lean Takeaway
These three exercises are simple yet incredibly effective. Do them daily — at home, in the park, or between meetings — to tone your legs, boost your posture, and feel more confident in your body.
“Movement should make you feel energised, not exhausted,” says James. “Consistency, posture, and clean nutrition are the keys to a truly lean body.”